News Summary
Northeast Tennessee held the prestigious 28th Annual Pinnacle Awards, recognizing significant contributions from the local tourism and hospitality industry. The event, hosted at Tennessee Hills Distillery, honored over 10 nominations across various categories, showcasing projects and individuals that enhanced the region’s tourism appeal. Winners included notable events like Johnson City Main Street Days and the Bristol Open 2024. This year’s awards highlighted the economic impact of tourism, with over $867 million generated in visitor spending, supporting thousands of jobs in the area.
Northeast Tennessee Celebrates Tourism Achievements at 28th Annual Pinnacle Awards
Northeast Tennessee recently celebrated the region’s tourism successes at the 28th Annual Pinnacle Awards, an event that underscores the significant contributions of the local tourism and hospitality industry. The awards ceremony was held at Tennessee Hills Distillery and included over 10 nominations across various categories such as marketing, advertising, events, attractions, individual achievement, and supporting business.
A panel of judges from the tourism and hospitality sector across the United States evaluated the nominees and selected winners based on their contributions to the field. Numerous projects and events were recognized during the ceremony for their impact and creativity. Notable winners included the Copperhead Road Landmark, Tiebreakers, and major community events like Johnson City Main Street Days and Fun Fest. Other highlighted initiatives were the Bristol Open 2024 – PPA Tour Event at Bristol Sportsplex, the Appalachian League All-Star Game organized by Visit Johnson City, and the Bike Ride Across Greene County facilitated by the Greene County Partnership as well as the MATE ROV World Championships hosted by Visit Kingsport.
This year’s Pinnacle Awards also showcased exceptional individuals who have made significant strides in the local tourism industry. The recognized nominees included Paul Harris from Jonesborough Tourism Department, Barbara Mentgen and Gabe Davis from Visit Johnson City, Katherine Hackler from Main Street Greeneville, Matt Bolas from Ripl Creative, Interstate Graphics nominated by Visit Johnson City, and Isabel Hawley-Lopez also from Jonesborough Tourism Department. These individuals were acknowledged for their hard work and dedication, enhancing Northeast Tennessee’s appeal as a travel destination.
According to the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association, the region boasts impressive tourism statistics, generating over $867 million in direct visitor spending annually. This robust economy supports more than 7,000 jobs in the area, resulting in a total payroll exceeding $205 million. Furthermore, the local sales tax derived from tourism contributes around $34 million each year, indicating the significant financial impact of tourism on local government and services.
The Pinnacle Awards are co-hosted by Bristol Motor Speedway in collaboration with the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and the Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association. This partnership aims to recognize the hard work and dedication of those involved in boosting Northeast Tennessee’s tourism industry and to encourage continued growth and innovation.
Overall, the event not only highlighted the achievements of the participating individuals and organizations but also served as a reminder of the critical role tourism plays in shaping the economic landscape of Northeast Tennessee. With a focus on enhancing community engagement and development, the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association continues to spearhead initiatives that showcase the area’s unique attractions and events, contributing to an ever-growing tourism sector.
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Additional Resources
- WJHL: Local Projects Earn Pinnacle Awards
- Wikipedia: Tourism in Tennessee
- WKRN: NE TN Businesses Open for Fall Tourists
- Google Search: Northeast Tennessee Tourism
- Herald Courier: Business News
- Google Scholar: Tennessee Tourism Economy
- News Channel 5: Storms Affecting NE TN
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennessee Tourism Industry
- TN State Parks: Fall Colors Viewing
- Google News: Northeast Tennessee events
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
